Google is rolling out a major update to its experimental AI Mode, giving millions more users in the U.S. the chance to experience smarter, more nuanced search. First launched as a feature for Google One AI Premium subscribers, AI Mode is now being made available more broadly through Google’s Labs program.
The update isn’t just about expanding access, it’s about adding new tricks to the AI toolbox. AI Mode now supports image-based queries, thanks to the integration of Google Lens’ multimodal capabilities.
A Smarter Way to Ask and See
AI Mode is designed to handle more complex and exploratory questions, the kind that go beyond quick facts or definitions. According to Google, the average query in AI Mode is twice as long as a typical search, with users turning to it for everything from side-by-side product comparisons to help planning trips.
With the new update, users can now upload an image or take a photo and ask AI Mode questions about it, like identifying objects, comparing styles, or finding similar items. Powered by a custom version of Gemini, the system analyzes the full scene in the image, not just isolated elements. It takes into account the context, relationships, colors, shapes, and materials in the frame, then runs multiple queries to deliver a rich and detailed response.
For example, snap a photo of a cluttered bookshelf, and AI Mode might not only identify each book, but also suggest similar reads, link you to purchase pages, and follow up with questions to help narrow your search. It’s visual search with a brain, and it’s designed to go beyond just recognizing what’s in a picture.
Available in Google Labs on Mobile
The updated AI Mode is currently available in the Google app for both Android and iOS, for those enrolled in Labs. Google says it’s still testing and refining the experience based on user feedback.
More information and access details can be found through the official Google blog post or by exploring the feature directly in the app.
